The compact SUV class is one where buyers have no shortage of viable options to choose from, but with so many available options, some strong contenders can often get overlooked. Today, we’ll be examining two models that fit into that very category, well liked by their userbase but often overlooked in the general segment, those being the 2024 VinFast VF8 and the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.
One an all electric option and the other a gasoline exclusive. But which of these hidden gems comes out on top in a direct comparison? Today, we’ll be giving both a head to head examination, seeing who comes out on top in today’s Compact SUV comparison: The VinFast VF8 vs The Eclipse Cross.
Key Takeaways
- For 2024, the City Edition model was dropped from the VinFast VF8, being replaced with the longer range Eco and Plus trims.
- The Eclipse Cross comes standard with all wheel drive capability right from the gate.
- The VinFast carries the performance edge between the two.
How much will a VinFast VF8 cost?
For 2024, Car and Driver reported that the VF8 dropped the City Edition model of 2023 in favor of the longer-range Eco and Plus models. These trims, which benefit from a newly installed battery pack sourced from Chinese battery giant CATL, are estimated to start at an MSRP of $47,200 for the Eco, and $53,000 for the Plus.
As for what benefits are gained from the new kit, the 87.7-kWh battery boosts the VF8's efficiency, bringing its range well into the mid-200-mile realm. Additionally, it’s reported that ride and handling improvements are in the works.
Of the trims, Car and Driver recommends the Eco model, which boasts the highest range of the two available trims with a respectable 264 miles per charge. They report that the Plus model has its own perks, though, as the upgrade to the Plus nets you an improved cabin, kitted out with luxury features including panoramic glass roof, leather upholstery, and even heated/ventilated rear seating.
How many miles per gallon does the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross get in 2024?
For 2024, Kelley Blue Book did an exclusive piece on the Eclipse Cross. They reported that, in terms of fuel efficiency, the Eclipse Cross sports a combined rating of 26 mpg in its base ES configuration, while all other trims achieve 25 mpg. Though a bit below average, the Eclipse Cross makes up for this with some decent low-end power that makes it more than capable for city driving. For more details, fuel economy ratings can be found on the EPA’s website.
As far as powertrain goes, The 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is equipped with a turbocharged inline 4, producing around 152-horsepower and paired with a CVT automatic transmission as well as standard all-wheel drive. The CVT helps enable the engine to make decent low-end power, though the main goal is in efficiency rather than horsepower.
Compared to the VF8 directly, the Eclipse Cross is on the slower side, particularly in regards to acceleration. Despite the power deficit, the Eclipse Cross performs well enough, with a smooth, quiet ride and versatile handling courtesy of its standard all wheel drive.
Summary
Comparing the two directly, we have to give our nod to the VF8. It’s the more luxurious, powerful, and overall more enjoyable SUV to own between the two, so it gets our nod in this head to head comparison.